With very numerous Woodcuts. 2 vols.
The study of Natural History is at all times pleasing and instructive; the object on this occasion has been to render it doubly captivating by a plain and simple style, and by the numerous wood engravings. The extravagant price of books of Natural History has deterred many, and it is no exaggeration to assert that the information and embellishments contained in these volumes could hardly be purchased in any other form at a cost of less than several pounds.
COMPENDIUM OF NATURAL PHILOSOPHY:
A SURVEY OF THE WISDOM OF GOD IN THE CREATION.
By John Wesley. A New Edition, by Robert Mudie. 3 Vols.
John Wesley’s name is a guarantee for the moral rectitude of the original volumes, as well as the full information which they contained at first publication; but since that time the progress of natural science has been greater than during the whole previous period of human history. Following Wesley’s arrangement, the editor has incorporated the most recent discoveries, adding many new facts to those of Baron Cuvier: he has pursued the history of invertebrated animals down to the very verge of animal existence, and annexed a full account of the vegetable kingdom. The re-edited work, therefore, is not only introductory on detached portions of nature to students, but recapitulatory to such as have already consulted the details. It may not be immaterial to remark that, while controverted points are studiously avoided, the very latest discoveries are introduced, and the language employed is free from that technicality which may gratify pedantry with out promoting knowledge.
THE LIFE OF ALI PASHA OF TEPELENI
VIZIER OF EPIRUS.
By R. A. Davenport.
It is a common error to imagine that a greater number of individuals rise in England than in other countries; more, certainly, attain wealth and respectability under free than despotic governments; but it is under the latter only that the very humblest and most illiterate, if possessed of courage and cunning, may approach to the steps of the throne itself. Of the numerous examples which Turkish history affords, none ran a more celebrated career than Ali Pasha. Rendering himself independent by a series of rebellions, his throne was supported by the blood of thousands; yet, notwithstanding the means by which he acquired power, Napoleon treated with him,—Lord Byron was his guest,—and England accepted his friendship. Turkish history, being a record of the indulgence of the worst passions of human nature, is always a terrible romance, but the life of Ali Pasha exceeds in guilt and horror the most infamous periods of Ottoman history. The great tragedy in which he performed so principal a part, was concluded by his own assassination in the throne-room of his palace, in a manner almost too merciful for such a ferocious monster.
THE HISTORY OF BRITISH INDIA.
By the Rev. G. R. Gleig, F.R.S. 4 Vols.